Indian Football Awards Celebrate Pyari Xaxa and Sunil Chhetri

The Indian Football Awards 2025 highlighted the achievements of Indian football stars, with Odisha’s Pyari Xaxa being crowned the Best Women’s Indian Player of the Year. The Football Players Association of India (FPAI) hosted the awards ceremony in Shillong on June 29. Pyari, who plays for Odisha FC Women in the IWL, is currently participating in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers in Thailand. The 28-year-old player, originating from Sundargarh, Odisha, showcased her talent by scoring five goals in India’s match against Mongolia. Sunil Chhetri, the veteran player, was awarded the Indian Player of the Year after his return from retirement. Winners across categories were chosen based on votes from active footballers. Other winners included Brison Fernandes, Alaaeddine Ajaraie, Edmund Lalrindika, Khalid Jamil, and Naorem Priyanka Devi.